West Nile Virus Outbreak Claims 63 Lives Across Europe, Raising UK Health concerns
London, UK – October 26, 2025 – A surge in West Nile virus cases across europe has resulted in at least 63 deaths since June, sparking health alerts and raising concerns about potential spread to teh United Kingdom.Italy is currently the epicenter of the outbreak, with 714 confirmed infections, followed by Greece (91), Serbia (60), and France (42).
The European Center for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) reports a total of 989 cases across 13 European countries as of September 2025, already exceeding the 10-year average of 687 cases for this period. While infection numbers remain lower than peaks observed in 2018, 2022, and 2024, the situation is prompting increased vigilance.
West Nile virus is primarily transmitted through mosquito bites. While the majority of those infected experience no symptoms, approximately 1 in 5 individuals develop flu-like symptoms including fever, headache, and body aches. These symptoms typically appear 2-14 days after infection and resolve within 3-6 days, according to the UK Health Security Agency. However,in rare cases,the virus can infect the nervous system,leading to severe inflammation of the brain or spinal cord,and potentially,death.
A British man from Hampshire, who contracted the virus during a trip to Goa, India, has shared his harrowing experience to raise awareness.He described a rapid decline in health, stating he went from being “a fit and able person” to someone “disabled and has to think about what they can and can’t do on a day-to-day basis.” he reported symptoms resembling a stroke, including weakness and tremors on one side of his body, which persist a year after infection. He told the BBC: ”The symptoms presented like a stroke. it was really worrying.”
Common symptoms of West Nile virus infection include:
* Headaches
* Body aches and joint pain
* vomiting
* Diarrhoea
* Rash
* fever
* Swollen lymph nodes
The ECDC anticipates a decrease in cases as weather conditions become less favorable for mosquito activity in Europe. Currently,there is no vaccine available for West Nile virus. Though,researchers at the university of Liverpool,in collaboration with The Pandemic Institute,are actively working to develop a vaccine that would offer protection against West Nile virus and other mosquito-borne diseases.
Health officials are advising travelers to take precautions against mosquito bites, notably in affected regions. This includes using insect repellent, wearing long sleeves and pants, and eliminating standing water where mosquitoes can breed.
